Now that the 18-year period is recognized as a campaign, with a medal for its soldiers, some security zone veterans look back and find unexpected relevance for them and the country

Defense minister accepts IDF recommendation to upgrade status of 18-year 'Security Zone in Lebanon Campaign'; ministerial committee must now give final approval

Army chief accepts recommendation to formally recognize service in the 'security zone' pending final approval from defense minister and ministerial committee

Defense minister meets activists calling for designation of southern Lebanon occupation as an official campaign, after IDF announces committee to consider move

Panel will consider whether to grant official recognition to Israel's 18-year military presence in country and, if it does, what to name the campaign